St. Onge (left) and Kane (right) are pictured with Blanchard. One of Pinkerton's largest clubs, FBLA outdid themselves this year in the eyes of one Pinkerton alumna. Holly Blanchard '10 is now the Director of Youth Programs and Social Media/Marketing for Make-A-Wish New Hampshire and called it her, "greatest honor," to be able to work with current Pinkerton students and watch what they were able to accomplish this year.
So what, exactly, did these students accomplish? FBLA raised $8,500 this year for Make-A-Wish New Hampshire. And while Pinkerton FBLA students in particular have had a relationship with Make-A-Wish going back several years, Blanchard said this year's donation was unprecedented.
"This year two young ladies, in particular, made a big difference," said Blanchard. "Madison St. Onge (President) and Sarah Kane (Vice President) were completely inspired. They both attended a Wish Tour in the Make-A-Wish office and really learned about our mission. From that point, they were hooked."
St. Onge, Kane and the rest of the FBLA students were able to raise most of these funds through two major events. The annual Pinkerton's Got Talent show is always a school and community favorite, and FBLA was able to capitalize on this by coming up with the idea to donate a portion of the proceeds directly to Make-A-Wish. The students advertised this on the school website, via flyers and social media, and also made a PSA that aired on Derry Community TV. The other event was a Gala to benefit Make-A-Wish. It was held on April 9th at the SNHU Hospitality Building and was the first time Pinkerton had organized the event.
"It came together in less than a month," said Blanchard, "which is incredible."
In addition to the Gala being a great fundraiser, Blanchard said it, "was a great opportunity for FBLA students to network with business professionals from nearby communities.
For some perspective on the impact the $8,500 contributed by FBLA will have, consider that the average cost of a Wish in New Hampshire is $10,000, according to Blanchard. The organization will grant between 80 and 90 wishes per year to kids in New Hampshire with life-threatening medical conditions.
"We're proud to say that $0.89 of every dollar raised goes directly towards wish granting," said Blanchard. "We actually have two wish kids right now from Derry -- so the Pinkerton funds may even help with those wishes!"
As always the FBLA club has accomplished so much this year. A big thank you to Mr. Smith, their advisor, and all the students who do so much for our community all year long.
So what, exactly, did these students accomplish? FBLA raised $8,500 this year for Make-A-Wish New Hampshire. And while Pinkerton FBLA students in particular have had a relationship with Make-A-Wish going back several years, Blanchard said this year's donation was unprecedented.
"This year two young ladies, in particular, made a big difference," said Blanchard. "Madison St. Onge (President) and Sarah Kane (Vice President) were completely inspired. They both attended a Wish Tour in the Make-A-Wish office and really learned about our mission. From that point, they were hooked."
St. Onge, Kane and the rest of the FBLA students were able to raise most of these funds through two major events. The annual Pinkerton's Got Talent show is always a school and community favorite, and FBLA was able to capitalize on this by coming up with the idea to donate a portion of the proceeds directly to Make-A-Wish. The students advertised this on the school website, via flyers and social media, and also made a PSA that aired on Derry Community TV. The other event was a Gala to benefit Make-A-Wish. It was held on April 9th at the SNHU Hospitality Building and was the first time Pinkerton had organized the event.
"It came together in less than a month," said Blanchard, "which is incredible."
In addition to the Gala being a great fundraiser, Blanchard said it, "was a great opportunity for FBLA students to network with business professionals from nearby communities.
For some perspective on the impact the $8,500 contributed by FBLA will have, consider that the average cost of a Wish in New Hampshire is $10,000, according to Blanchard. The organization will grant between 80 and 90 wishes per year to kids in New Hampshire with life-threatening medical conditions.
"We're proud to say that $0.89 of every dollar raised goes directly towards wish granting," said Blanchard. "We actually have two wish kids right now from Derry -- so the Pinkerton funds may even help with those wishes!"
As always the FBLA club has accomplished so much this year. A big thank you to Mr. Smith, their advisor, and all the students who do so much for our community all year long.
